A review by adhesivedolphin
The Past Is Red by Catherynne M. Valente

adventurous funny tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This book was an oddity in that the longer I read it, the more I liked it. I wouldn't say it stuck the start, but it nailed the ending. In the end, I think books that lean heavily into comedy aren't exactly my thing. I had hoped for more darkness in this book, and it's really strongly a slice of life. The twist at the end of the book was great, and I almost felt like it started too early in the story. While it has a good ending, it somehow still felt a little unfinished. I had the urge to read it again, just to try and understand how I both enjoyed and didn't enjoy this one. Oh, and I found the lead both annoying and deeply engaging, so I'd say that's a win.